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How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge

Many homes in Cambridge have traditional sash windows and homeowners are proud of their appearance. Sash windows can get stuck and be difficult to open or shut. This is often due moisture which can cause the timber to expand.

Box sash windows were historically operated using chains or cotton cords as well as weights made of lead. Modern windows with sash springs are concealed to solve this problem.

1. Aesthetics

Timber sash windows, unlike PVC-u windows, which are made in imperial sizes and are modular, are able to be restored to original dimensions. This permits the re-installation of timber sash windows to meet the current energy requirements and conform to conservation regulations for areas. It also comes with windows that are superior to Upvc Door Repair options.

Sliding sash windows were originally only used in large structures or public buildings, however the production process became less expensive and craftsmen could produce larger frames with more glass. At the end of the 18th century, sash windows had become the most popular wooden design in British homes. Sash windows were easy to operate and let light into rooms without the need for curtains.

The first windows were made of glass that was plain however, in the 17th century sash windows started to become more attractive. They were initially made of colored glazing bars or mullions. They were costly initially, but when glass production became less expensive and more efficient, they became a common feature in many period houses.

In the 19th century it was possible to manufacture large, strong glass that did not require support bars. This allowed the frame's size to be increased even more, which in turn meant more of a view from the window. This was an important improvement.

Another significant improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding window at the end of the I920s and beginning of the I930s. This allowed both the lower and upper sash to be opened simultaneously and gave improved ventilation to buildings.

Oak was used in older and more luxurious buildings. It is crucial to maintain the parting bead that divides the sashes. This will prevent draughts and rattles. It is also important that the idler and sash pulley wheels are in good condition as these assist in operating the window doctor near me.

2. Energy efficiency

As clearer and larger glass sheets were made available, sash windows started replacing hinged casements. Glass plates were set in frames of timber that were rebated, then secured with glazing sprigs and putty was then sprayed onto both sides of the frame for watertightness. This kind of glazing gradually replaced the leaded light bulbs.

Sashes were introduced, which resulted in an increase in demand for ironmongery. The most common fittings included brass pulleys (and later cast-iron) weights as well as sash stoppers, shutter hinges and handles, and a variety of fasteners used to secure the sashes. They were often decorated with motifs, inscriptions, and engraved patterns to identify the maker.

Sash windows can be very energy efficient if they are maintained regularly. If they are not maintained, they can become draughty. Paint and putty can cause draughts too. This can be remedied by making use of wood-to-timber repair tools that are proprietary.

The industry of replacement windows is based on the assumption that old windows are damaged and beyond economical repair, while they can be easily maintained with just a little care. However, repairs to these windows are costly and can cause substantial disruption to the home. To prevent this, many homeowners choose to replace their windows with PVC-u windows from one the large "one stop shop" installation companies. They can replace all windows in a home in a single day, saving time and eliminating the need for different tradesmen to coordinate. These windows can be equipped with energy-saving double glazing to get more energy efficient ratings than a traditional windows with sash. However these double-glazed units are unable to duplicate the proportions and section of traditional timber sashes.

3. Security

It is possible to secure windows that are traditional without compromising their appearance. Ironmongery such as sash chain, mortice bolts and sash locks can be used. These can be put in place in a way that the window remains able to be opened to allow ventilation or cleaning. These products are often unobtrusive as they are designed to be used in conjunction with sash windows. They can be used in conjunction with traditional sash window repair cambridge window catches, which should be replaced with more robust models (such as those incorporating double screws) or spring-loaded levers to minimize the chance of them being hammered open.

Sash-window frames are typically made from oak or slow-grown deal. If the glazing bars are in good condition and are not damaged, they should be left. If possible, the timber cills should be replaced by timber that is compatible with. Many PVC-U companies offer a one-stop installation service. They can take down and replace windows on an entire home in one day, without the need to involve other tradespeople.

4. Ventilation

When sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century they allowed a substantial amount of light into the buildings. At the end of the 18th century, they were adapted so that even more light could be let into rooms. Larger glass panes were also made. The result was a lighter appearance and windows with more elegance.

Sash windows were introduced that required a brand new type of ironmongery. Early pulleys could be made of wood. Later Victorian ones were made of brass or a mixture of leaded and wood. There were also various types of knobs and shutter hinges. These ironmongery pieces should be maintained and cleaned to appreciate their fine design.

Timber windows require careful maintenance to ensure they remain in good condition. Inattention to maintenance could lead to:

Sashes that do not move effortlessly.

Holes in the frame which allow water to enter and cause decay and damage.

break down of putty, allowing water to penetrate, which could lead to decay of the frame and cill.

In the I920s and I930s steel casement windows increased in popularity due to their durability slim and affordable, and complemented the vogue for healthy living. Research has proven that softwood sash window doctor cambridge are as efficient as PVC-u windows and can even be more attractive.

The replacement window industry has done a lot to convince homeowners that their old windows are rotten, draughty and beyond economic repair. However, many old windows made of timber are in good condition and, with minor repairs, could easily be maintained for years to be.

5. Maintenance

A traditional sash window requires regular maintenance and inspection. If you fail to maintain your sash window, it can cause the sash cords breaking, and the glazing bars deteriorating excessively. It can also cause paint and putty become damaged. The removal of the sashes can also result in structural movement within the frame which causes the sash to become misaligned and not closing properly. It is also possible for the sash be snagged or slammed into an open position, which can let water and draughts enter the structure.

Moisture penetration is a common cause of damage to timber windows. This can be avoided by regular maintenance as well as thorough painting, and then removing the cause of dampness. The paint can be removed to reveal the soft, rotting wood. Any rotten timber sections should be cut off and the affected part carefully scarfed or pieced in using replacements made from the same type of wood as those remaining. This method of repair maximises the amount of original fabric that is left and is one of the least invasive ways of treating decay of timber to timber.

A resin-based wood condenser is a viable alternative to traditional process of sanding or staining. It is brushed onto the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilise it. It is particularly beneficial in the treatment of pulleys and sash cords where it can help to stop breakage.

It is crucial to restore and not replace any old ironmongery such as the sash latches and stays. They can be extremely difficult to replace without harming the the original design. It is recommended that the use of modern aluminium fittings, such as sash lifts and chain stays is avoided whenever possible since they can cause corrosion and deterioration of frames and sashes made of timber.